Adopt

Meet Archie, a 1 1/2 to 2-year-old yellow male with a heart full of love. This sweet, sensitive boy was picked up as a stray, and he’s learning to trust the world one gentle step at a time. Archie can be nervous in new situations and prefers to take things slow. He would thrive with a patient owner who can continue to help him build confidence. He thrives on companionship and enjoys the company of other dogs as well as his humans. He made fast friends with his foster brother and they spend quite a lot of time together. Archie is happy to share toys, space and attention with his foster brother. He would really love to share his foster brother’s crate but he can’t convince him there is room for two! He’s crate trained and goes in on his own, throughout the day to nap. This sensitive boy would probably do best in a calm, quiet home with older children where he can feel safe and secure. While not a fan of getting in the car, once he’s in, he rides like a champ! Like many Labs, Archie is smart and attentive — he’ll bark to let you know when someone is at the door or when he wants a little extra attention from his favorite people. He’s a loyal and affectionate companion who will follow you around the house and lean in for cuddles. Archie is an early riser and starts each day with snuggles, tail wags, and a smile! Some of Archie’s favorite activities include playing fetch, going for walks, romping around with his foster brother, chewing on his Nylabones, and chasing butterflies in the yard. He would thrive with a family who can give him plenty of love, playtime, and companionship. If you’re looking for a loyal companion to relax with at home, Archie is ready to fill your life with happiness and unconditional love. Contact his foster to learn more!

Meet Bear — a handsome black neutered male, estimated to be between
3–5 years old and weighing about 50 pounds. He may be on the smaller
side, but he has a huge heart and so much love to give!

Bear loves his walks and does wonderfully on a leash. In fact, he gets so
excited when it’s time to go outside that he sits, walks backward, and
eagerly waits for his leash to be clipped on. He enjoys several short walks
throughout the day and is happiest spending time with his people.

Bear can be a little shy when meeting new people, but once he warms up,
his sweet and affectionate personality shines through. He has been around
10-year-old children and has done well. He knows “sit” and
“paw,” is close to mastering “stay,” and loves
playing with his toys — especially his favorite octopus toy, which he
proudly tosses around when he gets playful and excited.

This smart boy is potty trained, sleeps soundly through the night in his
own bed, and can comfortably stay home for several hours without needing a
crate or pen. He is very treat motivated (Swiss cheese is his favorite for
taking his pills!) and enjoys pets, brushing sessions, and relaxing with his
family.

On walks, Bear calmly watches people, dogs, and cats pass by without much
reaction. He’s generally a quiet dog and only barks occasionally when
he wants attention or playtime. He’s also a great passenger in the
car!

Bear is currently being treated for Valley Fever and will need to continue
medication for some time, with re-testing in 3–4 months. He also came
to rescue with previous injuries to his legs. Despite this, Bear walks,
plays, and enjoys life with mild to moderate activity. To help him live an
even more active and comfortable life, his future family may choose to pursue
surgery on one or both knees. DLRR will work closely with Bear’s
adopters and Southwest Veterinary Surgical orthopedic vet specialists
throughout this process, and the cost of the surgeries will be covered by
DLRR.

Bear is a loving, active, and resilient dog who deserves a family to call
his own. If you think Bear could be the perfect addition to your home, please
contact his foster to schedule a showing.

Meet Bowie — an 8-month-old purebred bundle of fun, energy, and
personality! This handsome neutered boy is always ready for his next
adventure, whether that’s splashing in the water, chasing a tennis
ball, or making new dog friends. Bowie absolutely loves to swim and play, and
his goofy, playful spirit is guaranteed to keep you smiling.

Bowie came to DLRR after washing out of service dog training due to a
seizure, but we have not seen any seizures while he's been in our
care. Don’t let that fool you — he’s still an incredibly
smart and loving pup with so much potential. He’s currently working
hard on his basic manners and learning commands like sit, place, stay, yes,
and no. He’ll need a family committed to continuing his training and
helping him grow into the best boy he can be. He also appreciates gentle
reminders that kitchen counters are not snack bars!

One thing Bowie already excels at? Walking on leash! He’s great on
walks and would make an excellent companion for an active home that enjoys
outdoor time and play sessions. Bowie does well with other dogs and thrives
on interaction and fun. His experience with cats is unknown.

If you’re looking for a happy, energetic young dog with a big heart,
playful personality, and tons of potential, Bowie may just be your perfect
match!

HELLO HANDSOME!  Pictures just do not do this little guy justice –
from his beautiful cinnamon-colored coat, to his gorgeous hazel eyes to his
cute little pink nose, he is a gorgeous 3-year old Lab mix with a friendly
and playful personality to match.  Buddy loves walks, car rides and pup
cups (but not in that order).  However, what Buddy really loves are
other dogs.  Our boy came from a family with three other dogs (including
two small dogs) and he is really looking for another "pack" to romp
and play with.  He was owner-surrendered to the Santa Cruz County Animal
Care Center (due to landlord issues) and according to the prior owners, he is
also good with cats and children (we've seen evidence of the latter from
his friendly interest in neighborhood kids playing in the
street).  

Buddy is fully house-broken and crate-trained and behaves excellently
on car rides.  He is a fairly good walker but has a hard time resisting
the opportunity to meet other dogs we encounter on our walks.  He
often requires distraction (aka treats) on those rare occasions when the
other dog is not interested in a sniff.  Buddy loves cuddles and back
scratches but sometimes wants to play a little rough (we suspect he is used
to rough-housing with his canine siblings).  To redirect all that
Labrador energy, we are working on teaching him to play fetch.  He
has proven to be a quick learner with the basic commands that we have started
teaching him and exercising those commands also helps calm him down. 
However, Buddy likely has healer or another hunting breed mixed into his DNA
(he actually "points" when something catches his interest) and
while he doesn't react much to bunnies or birds, he is really triggered
by the sight or smell of the javelinas which frequent our neighborhood. 
As such, Buddy might not be well-suited for hiking or other typical
Arizona outdoor activities in wildland areas.  

Buddy will be a wonderful addition to an active family with one or more
other dogs and even children to play with so he can rebuild his
"pack."   If you think you might be the right family to
welcome Buddy into your pack, please reach out so you can meet
this beautiful pup in person. He will steal your heart!

Miss Coco, Coco Puffs, Coco-nut, Coco Beach, CocoLoco–whatever you want
to call her is fine, just don't call her late for dinner!  Coco is
an awesome companion and an easy dog to take care of.  She's a
senior Lab, but don't tell her that–I don't think she knows. 
She acts like a 3 year old!  She loves to play fetch and will play it as
long as you want to, dropping the ball right at your feet and waiting
for the next throw.  Coco has been tested with kids ages 4 and 14 months
and she passed with flying colors and a couple of facial slurps.  She is
trustworthy when left alone at home, gets along with other dogs, sleeps
through the night, is housebroken, loves her walks and is pretty good on the
leash.  Jumping into a car is no problem for this spry gal.  She
alert barks when someone comes to the door or she sees something outside that
shouldn't be there but she'll stop as soon as you tell her to-good
girl!  She enjoys following us around the house and often positions
herself between the rooms where the 2 adults are so she can keep track of
both of us.  Have you heard that petting dogs can lower your blood
pressure?  Well, Dr. Coco is ready and willing to help you with
that!  She will soak up as many pets as you wish to give. 
It's great therapy!   At 58 pounds, Coco is the perfect
size.  In fact, there isn't a single negative about Coco.(except
maybe her tendency to occasionally snore when she's
sleeping!)  We think Coco is the complete package and once you meet
her you'll wonder how you ever lived without her.  

Hi, I’m Ember!

I’m a 15-month-old black Labrador with a gentle heart, soulful eyes,
and a quiet personality that’s still discovering all the wonderful
things life has to offer. At 51 pounds, I’m the perfect size for
adventures, cuddles, and being your loyal sidekick.

I spent my entire life in my previous home and didn’t get many
opportunities to explore the world beyond my front door. Because of that, a
lot of things are still new to me. I’m learning that walks can be fun,
toys are worth playing with, and affection from my people is pretty amazing.
New experiences can make me a little nervous at first, and quick movements
sometimes startle me, but with patience and encouragement, I gain confidence
every day.

I lived with a young child and lots of activity around me, so being left
alone is something I’m still adjusting to. A kennel isn’t my
favorite place to spend time, but I can free roam fairly well. I am still a
young Lab, though, so I occasionally look for my own entertainment if I get
bored.

When my family is around, I’m a laid-back gal who’s happy
to lounge on a dog bed, nap in my crate, or simply keep everyone company.
I’m about 99% house-trained and thrive when I have a consistent
routine. I enjoy car rides and love feeling the breeze with my head out the
window. The swimming pool definitely has my attention—I’m curious
about it– but I haven’t taken the plunge just yet!

I get along wonderfully with other dogs and even cats. What I’m
really looking for is a patient family that will help me continue building
confidence while showing me how great life can be. Beneath my shy exterior is
a sweet, loving girl who is ready to be cherished and spoiled.

Could I be the missing piece your family has been looking for?

I’m Fletcher — a handsome, 10-year-old English black Labrador
Retriever, weighing in at a solid 80 pounds. Life has thrown me a few
curveballs recently, but thanks to the caring folks at DLRR, I’m
healthy, happy, and ready to start fresh in my forever home.

Not long ago, I ended up at the Maricopa County shelter in rough shape. I
was sick, sore, and had no energy. A serious infection caused a lot of
swelling, and because of my medical needs, I was called a “New
Hope” dog. That meant I couldn’t be adopted by the public. My
time was almost up, but DLRR stepped in and saved me. They took me to the
great team at Scottsdale Vet Clinic, who treated my infection and helped me
get better.

Then, just as I was starting to feel better, I got some respiratory
infections. I had to stay in isolation while I recovered, but the
wonderful staff helped me get through it. Once I was healthy enough, I was
finally neutered, and now I feel better than ever! The staff was really sad
to see me go cuz I was such a good boy. Everybody loved me! Now I'm
with my foster mom and dad. They think I'm pretty special too. So do all
the neighbors who always want to pet me when I walk by.
I’m a calm, gentle, and easygoing guy who loves. loves,
loves  a good walk, even if I zig-zag a bit to check out every
smell!  I look like an English Lab with my stocky build, and I have a
few unique dark spots on my tongue that makes me one-of-a-kind. I’m
completely housebroken and not destructive. However, if there is an open
garbage can or something on the counter, my curiosity will make me check it
out. I stole my foster dad's toast off his eggs the other day! I adore
kids and love to cuddle on the couch. I'm pretty good at playing fetch
except sometimes I don't like to give it back! I know sit, shake and lay
down. I'm learning to wait at the door but, sometimes that is really hard
for me!  I love to ride in the car and hang my head out the window. I
have been getting in on the first step of the pool to grab a quick drink and
cool my belly off. So far I haven't been swimming. My foster mom says
when it warms up a little she will get in with me. I think I will probably
love it! Overall, I’m just a mellow, grateful Lab ready to settle
into a loving home.

I promise to be a loyal companion who will always stay by your side. Could
we be the perfect match? Let’s find out together. I’m ready to
begin our next chapter.     Love, Fletcher

Hi. My name is Gator.

Yes, I know. I am a lot of dog. A beefy, handsome, 107 pound black lab to
be exact. And before you ask, yes, my coat really is this shiny
naturally.

I do not really like to dwell on my past. Mostly because I am a dog and
prefer to live in the moment. But I was found as a stray with another dog and
we even shared a kennel together at county. Thankfully, my life took a turn
for the better when Desert Lab Retriever Rescue came along and busted me out
of there. Since then, everyone has been helping me get ready for my next
chapter. Hopefully with you.

I am 7 years old, but let’s not get dramatic about that number. I
still have plenty of spunk left in me. I am happy, active, goofy, and fully
committed to enjoying life. Walks? Love them. A dip in the pool afterward to
cool off? Even better. Car rides? I am in. Pets and attention? Absolutely
yes. As much as possible please and thank you.

I walk pretty well on leash, though I am a strong guy, so I could use a
little polishing around the edges. The good news is the basics are there and
I am eager to please. I am also housebroken and dog door trained, which I
feel deserves extra credit.

As for other dogs, I can be a little selective about my friendships. Think
of me as having a strong personality and high standards. Because of that,
DLRR would want to do a proper introduction with your resident dog to see if
we decide we would like to become best buds, casual roommates, or maybe just
respectfully admire each other from across the room.

Now let’s address the elephant in the room. Or maybe the lab in the
room. Yes, I am overweight. But I prefer to think of it as an exciting
transformation journey for me and my future pawents. Imagine how rewarding it
will be watching me slim down, feel better, and become even zestier than I
already am. I am currently on a thyroid supplement that should help me get to
my ideal weight too.

At the end of the day, I am just a really sweet, happy dog looking for
people to love. If you want a bright light in your life, I have a feeling I
might be the guy you have been waiting for.

Joleen, Joleen, Joleen, Joleeeeeeeeen…….. I’m
beggin’ you please take this sweet girl home.
(I’m also beggin’ Dolly Parton’s forgiveness as
well…..)
Meet Jolene – or “JoJo” to her friends – a stunning 50 lb. silver
Lab mix with soulful eyes and heart that is learning every day that the world
can be a safe and loving place.  Estimated to be between 8 months and 1
year of age, JoJo is still very much a puppy at heart, full of curiosity,
sweetness and a penchant to chew.  (She is an equal opportunity toy
lover!)
This special girl has already made incredible progress in foster care.
 When she first arrived, she was too unsure to even take a single step
on a leash.  Now?  Jojo proudly walks nearly 3 miles a day using
her no-pull harness like a champ!  Watching her confidence grow has been
nothing short of amazing.
JoJo is crate trained, sleeps soundly in her crate all night, and thrives
with gentle guidance and patience.  She does well with other dogs when
given slow, respectful introductions, and she’s learning that new
people can become trusted friends too.  While she may be a little shy at
first, once she feels safe, she warms up quickly and shows her affectionate ,
loving personality.
One thing JoJo is always confident about?  Snacks!  This girls is
highly food motivated, which makes continued training both fun and rewarding.
 With positive reinforcement and a patient adopter, JoJo’s
potential is endless. Fair warning though!!!!……..Ms. JoJo
suffers from severe “FOMO” – Fear of Missing Out!  Be
prepared to have a 4 legged shadow where ever you go!
She’s looking for someone who will celebrate the little victories with
her, continue building her confidence, and give her the love she deserves.
 In return, JoJo will give you the joy of watching a once-timid pup
blossom in to a loyal best friend.  
 

Meet Louie – Your Freckled Adventure Buddy 

Louie is a 11 month-old yellow Lab mix with the cutest face and a
heart that is 100% pure sunshine. His tongue proves how big his heart
is. 

This sweet boy had a rough detour when he was dumped outside a homeless
shelter, but thankfully kind volunteers knew immediately—this was a
family dog who just needed a second chance.

When Louie first arrived, he was a little unsure of the world
(under-socialized , no house training or structure and leadership) but oh my
goodness… once he warms up, his zest for life absolutely shines. He is
full of joyful puppy enthusiasm, curiosity, and tail-wagging optimism. He is
a little hesitant at first with small children, though does warm up when he
can come to them. Older children that are teenagers, he is more comfortable
with.  

He has been in a home with a trainer and has mastered his basic training
and better life skills and house manners. He gets along very well with other
dogs and cat friendly, though resident cat must be good with dogs. 

Louie LOVES:

Playing fetch with a ball

Hiking and outdoor adventures

Playing fetch with a ball

Snuggling up with his humans after a full day of fun

Playing fetch with his ball

Belly rubs 

Playing fetch with his ball…

Louie is looking for a home who will invest in his continued
training, nurture his confidence, and guide him as he grows into the
incredible adult dog he’s meant to be. In return, he’ll give you
loyalty, laughter, adventure, and the sweetest snuggles.

If you’re ready for a wonderful sidekick with endless love and
a joyful spirit, Louie is waiting. 

Luna (20) is a 56 pound, 8 year old, spayed, female black lab with a
big heart – both figuratively and literally. She is shy at first and very
timid, but after a few weeks, she will come out of her shell and is really a
very sweet, loving, loyal dog. She loves to go on walks and car rides, but
mostly she loves just being with her people and getting her ears, neck and
belly rubbed. She is house trained and can be left alone to her own devices
for several hours. Her favorite toys are stuffies and toys that squeak. If
you toss a toy, she will saunter over to it, pick it up and gently bring it
back two or three times – and then she is done with that game. She can use a
doggy door, but prefers to go in and out the human door. She is good with
children and other dogs and is ambivalent about cats.

As noted above, her heart is enlarged and she has a significant heart
murmur. Her heart condition makes any surgery impossible unless it is for
life saving purposes. This condition is currently stable and could remain so
for several years. She is on a grain, sweet potato, chicken, and legume diet,
with no salt to support her heart health. This can be purchased premade or a
recipe to make it can be provided. She takes trazodone twice a day for
anxiety and Vetmedin (pimobendan) twice a day for her heart condition.
These medications will need to be provided to her for the duration of her
life.

Meet Mozi! 
A 4.5-year-old chocolate Lab with a heart full of love and a serious talent
for snuggling!

If you’re looking for a loyal sidekick, I’m your girl. My
favorite things? Cuddling (a LOT), neighborhood strolls, playing with my
toys—especially the stuffed ones—going on sock treasure hunts,
napping, and hanging out with my foster sister. But most of all, I just want
to be wherever you are. Being with my people is my absolute favorite thing in
the world!

I’m a well-mannered lady—house trained, crate trained, and
happy to hop in the car for an adventure. I’d do best in a home where
someone is around most of the time, because I truly thrive on companionship
and connection. Cats aren’t really my thing, and the vet isn’t my
favorite place, but I promise to make up for it with endless love and
sweetness.

Everyone who meets me says I’m the total package—easygoing,
affectionate, and such a joy to have around. I’m the kind of dog that
makes a house feel like home.

And here’s one of the things that makes me extra special… I
come with my very own dining chair! It’s called a Bailey chair (I like
to think it was named just for me), and I use it for my megaesophagus. I
happily sit in it for meals and some post-dinner hangout
time—it’s just part of my routine! My foster mom will gladly show
you how simple it is and how much I enjoy it.

All I’m missing is a forever family to share all this love with.
Could that be you?

Are you ready for your new best friend?

No one (not even your grandmother at Thanksgiving) will be happier to see
you than Niko!

Have you neglected your 2026 exercise goals?  Niko is your guy!

Have you met your 2026 exercise goals and need a partner? Niko is your
guy!

Nico, aka “Wiggle Butt”  and “the Shark”
– as he never stops moving –  is a gorgeous, 70 lb goofy, high
energy 1 year old yellow Lab.  He has a lovely, thick wavy coat,
gorgeous amber eyes and a spring in his step – he is always up for a
good time!

Niko was turned into Pinal County Shelter by his owner and was picked up
by DLRR the very same day. He has been with DLRR for almost 3 weeks and he
has never met a stranger!

Niko loves:

WATER:  Drinking water – he drinks from the hose like a  child
of the ‘70’s –  laying in water, playing in water, splashing
in water, walking in water…. A pool would be heaven for him!
Car rides: Yes please!  
Fetch:  (returning to your vicinity is a sure thing, but giving it over?
Maybe  not so much!) Niko is an equal opportunity player: plush toys,
 squeaky toys and balls are all in play!
Treats: ( hot dogs over blueberries….) He takes his treats very gently
and is food motivated!
Tricks: Niko knows “sit” “lay down”
“stay” “come”….pretty well, he just needs to
practice and mature into concentrating on holding the position! He is also
quite good on the leash once he settles into his walk.
Crate:  Niko’s former owner reports that Niko is crate
trained.

A Few Things to Know: 

Niko is a high energy dog who would benefit from  a large yard to
romp around in, a pool and an active family to burn off that puppy
energy.

 We do not believe Niko met other dogs in his prior life and as such
is a bit afraid of them.  Per the dog behaviorist, he is not aggressive
and actually will run behind his human’s legs like a shy toddler. 
A new family who would be willing to do a bit of training to make him
comfortable with other dogs would be the best situation for Niko.  We
believe Niko would come to love  companion dog to play with – although
we see he could be happy soaking up all the attention as a single dog as
well.   

As Niko  is a big, young guy who never stops moving and has no sense
at all of his size,  a home with older children would be best as he
could easily knock over a younger child.  Niko has been wearing a cone
for the last 10 days and he has not let that big plastic lamp shade slow him
down one bit – he will run right into you with it on and keep
moving!

If you're looking for a loyal, loving companion who will keep you
active and entertained, Niko might be the perfect match. He's ready to
bring love, laughter, adventures and plenty of tail wags into your life!

Meet River — a handsome 3½-year-old black Flat-Coated
Retriever mix with a heart as gentle as his name. While his exact mix is
unknown, many think he may have some Border Collie or Australian Shepherd in
him. Whatever the blend, River is equal parts loyal companion and playful
spirit.

True to his name, River mostly flows through life with calm, easygoing
energy. Around the house, he’s peaceful, affectionate, and wonderfully
well-mannered. He loves lounging nearby, soaking up pets, and quietly follows
his human from room to room. When left alone, he settles nicely and knows how
to self-soothe. He’s fully housebroken and truly shines as an indoor
companion.

River also enjoys walks and games of fetch, where his playful side really
comes alive. Like many sensitive dogs, the outside world can sometimes feel a
little overwhelming for him. Most of the time he walks beautifully on leash,
but exciting moments — especially noisy or reactive dogs — can
occasionally bring out his “river rapids” with some pulling and
barking. The good news? River has already made wonderful progress with
training and just needs a patient, consistent adopter to help him continue
building confidence.

Because he prefers peaceful routines, likes to graze at mealtime, and can
be protective of his resting space, River would thrive best as the only dog
in the home.

If you’re looking for a loving, soulful, low-key best friend with a
playful spark, River may be the perfect companion for you.

Ruger is an eight-year-old yellow Lab with a warm soul, a handsome face, and a story still unfolding. After being separated from his family where he had  limited socialization, Ruger is now discovering the joy of trust, adventure, and belonging in his foster home—and he’s ready to find a place to call his own.

At first, Ruger may come across as a little shy or unsure. New people and unfamiliar situations can make him hesitant, and he might express his uncertainty with a bark or low growl. But behind that cautious exterior is a deeply affectionate dog who blossoms with patience and kindness. Once Ruger feels safe, his true personality shines—he is loving, loyal, and always ready to share cuddles, tail wags, and gentle companionship.

Ruger has quickly learned that life can be exciting and fun. Walks, once unfamiliar, are now the highlight of his day. He enjoys strolling 1–2 miles, taking in all the new smells and sights around him. He also loves car rides, especially when he can rest his head near the window and feel the breeze. Outings to patios, stores, and even social gatherings have helped him build confidence, and he continues to grow braver with each new experience.

In the home, Ruger is a calm and devoted companion. He adores being close to his people—whether curled up beside them on the couch, resting his head in a lap, or sleeping at their feet at night. He forms strong attachments quickly, especially with women, and thrives on companionship. Because of this, he does experience some separation anxiety, but with gentle guidance and routine, he will learn how to feel more secure when left alone.  His foster family is working with him on crate training, and he is making progress.  

Ruger lives peacefully with two cats, choosing to quietly coexist rather than engage. He has also met other dogs successfully when introductions are slow and respectful, and he may benefit from a confident canine friend to help show him the ropes. While toys don’t hold much appeal for him, he does enjoy a good game of fetch with a tennis ball, happily bringing it back and placing it at your feet.

He is house-trained and communicates clearly when he needs to go outside with a soft whine. He knows how to use a doggy door. Despite having access to a pool, swimming isn’t really his thing—he prefers solid ground and the comfort of staying close to his humans.

Ruger is looking for a calm, patient home where he can continue building confidence at his own pace. He needs someone who will provide consistency, gentle leadership, and plenty of love. In return, Ruger offers unwavering loyalty, quiet companionship, and a heart full of affection.

With time, trust, and kindness, Ruger won’t just be a good dog—he will be an extraordinary one.